Long-Leaved Speedwell is a
non-native
perennial plant of the UK, typically found growing in grassland, hedgerows and waste ground, to a mature height of up to 100cm.
Long-Leaved Speedwell takes its name from its elongated serrated-edged leaves. Unlike mosty other speedwells, it has tubular flowers which are arranged in distinctive tapering spikes. The plant was introduced into the UK as a garden plant by the eighteenth century and exists in the wild as a garden 'escape'.
Botanic classification and naming: Long-Leaved Speedwell is a member of the Plantain (Plantaginaceae) family. The genus name
'Veronica' identifies the plant as a Speedwell and its species name 'longifolia' means 'spiked plant'.
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